Adoption

Child Adoptions and Adoption Laws

Over 130,000 children are adopted in the U.S. each year. You could say it’s become quite a popular way to grow a family. When considering adoption, it’s important to understand what the process entails. Understanding third-party vs. stepparent adoption is also crucial.

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Overview

Every state is responsible for its own adoption laws. No matter the situation, the adoption process must be finalized through a court procedure for anyone under the age of 18. Additionally, any child over the age of 12 years old must consent to the adoption. There are several laws surrounding this process as it is not a simple task.

Court Requirements

You can expect that with any legal change, a court will be involved. Any adoption, no matter how it was started, is required to be finalized through a court procedure.

Before filing for adoption, background checks for the adopting parent are often required by state law. These background checks are conducted by the FBI and state law enforcement.

About Third-Party Adoption

Generally speaking, no matter your relationship status, you can adopt. The only age requirement is that the party or parties adopting must be 21 years of age or older. A single individual may choose to adopt but if a couple adopts together, both must petition for the adoption.

Parents who are interested in adopting must first be approved by a state-licensed home study provider. Through a series of interviews, home inspections, and background checks, the person or family will be evaluated to ensure they’re in a good place to proceed with the adoption process.

Any kind of couple can adopt if they are approved. The process may vary slightly, based on required paperwork for your relationship and state in which you reside.